CVE-2016-5188 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple issues in Blink in Google Chrome prior to 54.0.2840.59 for Windows, Mac, and Linux allow a remote attacker to spoof various parts of browser UI via crafted HTML pages.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-5188 represents a significant security flaw within the Blink rendering engine that powers Google Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers across multiple operating systems. This vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the browser's user interface components, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the visual presentation of browser elements through carefully crafted HTML content. The affected versions prior to Chrome 54.0.2840.59 demonstrate a critical weakness in the browser's ability to distinguish between legitimate UI elements and those generated by malicious code, creating opportunities for sophisticated social engineering attacks.
The technical flaw manifests in the Blink engine's handling of user interface elements, where the rendering process fails to properly validate or sanitize HTML content that attempts to modify or replicate browser interface components. Attackers can exploit this weakness by embedding specific HTML tags, CSS properties, or JavaScript code that manipulates the browser's visual presentation layer. This includes the ability to alter the appearance of address bars, security indicators, or other critical UI elements that users rely upon for security verification. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of browser rendering and user interface security, where the normal protective boundaries between content and interface become compromised.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple visual deception, creating potential pathways for phishing attacks and credential theft. When attackers successfully spoof browser UI elements, they can trick users into believing they are interacting with legitimate browser components while actually engaging with malicious content. This type of attack directly undermines the trust model that modern browsers establish with users, as the visual cues that users depend on for security verification become unreliable. The vulnerability affects all supported platforms including Windows, Mac, and Linux, indicating a systemic weakness in the browser engine rather than platform-specific implementation issues.
Organizations and security professionals should implement immediate mitigation strategies including prompt browser updates to version 54.0.2840.59 or later, which contain patches addressing the UI spoofing mechanisms. Network administrators should consider implementing additional security layers such as content filtering solutions that can detect and block suspicious HTML patterns associated with UI manipulation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-602, which addresses client-side UI security issues, and represents a significant concern under ATT&CK framework category T1566 for social engineering techniques. Users should be educated about the importance of verifying browser UI elements and maintaining awareness of potential spoofing attempts, particularly when navigating untrusted websites or encountering unexpected browser behavior.